A University of Texas study found that people taking GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic show lower rates of developing alcohol, opioid, nicotine, and cocaine use disorders compared to non-users. The finding is based on observational data showing association, not proof that the drugs directly prevent addiction—researchers stress the mechanism is unclear but suggests these medications may affect impulsivity or reward pathways in the brain. This adds to emerging evidence that GLP-1 drugs may have mental health and behavioral effects beyond their original weight loss purpose, though larger controlled trials are needed to confirm causation.